News Agency of Nigeria
Exhibition to celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy opens in Lagos
Culture & Tourism

Exhibition to celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy opens in Lagos

 

 

By Folasade Adeniran

An exhibition designed to showcase the life, musical and enduring legacy of the late Afrobeats pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, will open in Lagos in October.

 

The exhibition, with the theme “Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion”,  is organised by Whitespace Creative Arts (AWCA) Foundation, with support from the French Embassy in Nigeria, the Kuti family and Ecobank.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 10-week cultural programme will run from Oct. 12 to Dec. 28, featuring a rich blend of archives, music, cinema, talks, workshops, fashion and youth engagement.

 

Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday in Lagos, Mr Laurent Favier, Consul-General of the French Embassy in Lagos, said France was honoured to support a high-quality tribute to Fela.

 

“France has always been a heartland for Fela Kuti, supporting not only his music but also his activism.

 

“In the 1980s, he struck a chord with the times and fascinated the French press, which was the first to talk about the ‘Fela phenomenon’.

 

“These ties continue with his talented family; Femi, Seun, Made, and others,” Favier said.

 

He explained that the exhibition was originally conceived by the Philharmonie de Paris – Cité de la Musique in 2022 and curated by French and Nigerian experts.

 

According to him, the Paris edition drew wide acclaim, attracting 60,000 visitors within a month.

 

“It was a true exercise in collective and intercultural intelligence, which enriched this Lagos edition.

 

“With more archives, resources and the strong involvement of the Kuti family, the experience promises to be even more dynamic,” he said.

 

Favier added that the project reflects France’s broader cultural cooperation with Nigeria, built on mutual respect and equal partnership.

 

In her remarks, Ms Onoshiokhue Ako, Project Lead, Culture Producer, Afrobeat Rebellion, said the exhibition seeks to create a cohesive experience that resonates across generations.

 

“For us, Afrobeat Rebellion is more than an exhibition.

 

“It is a living season of culture. We designed it tobridge generations: from the children creating in the Young Rebels’ Corner to the elders who remember Fela firsthand, and everyone in between.

 

“We thank the Philharmonie de Paris for their deep reverence for Fela’s music. They pioneered this significant cultural exhibition, which has now expanded into what we have here.

 

“To Ecobank, our host and home for three months, we are grateful. You stand as a true African centre, a home and a symbol of the continent’s cultural and economic ambition,” she said.

 

Ako also appreciated the Kuti family for their invaluable support and contributions to the project.

 

Speaking on the essence of reimagining the exhibition, curator and founder of June Creative Art Advisory, Seun Alli, said that Fela was too often reduced to a handful of catchphrases and uninformed stories.

 

Ali said these included songs like “Zombie” and “Water No Get Enemy,” the Kalakuta fire, his marriage to 27 women, or the unfounded claim that he performed on stage in his underwear.

 

“Curating Afrobeat Rebellion in Lagos is a deliberate refusal of this flattening.

 

“It aims to reposition Fela not merely as a musician or rebel, but as a public intellectual whose music and philosophy are deeply intertwined with Africa’s social, political, and intellectual histories.”

 

Alli said that Fela’s work was never just style or spectacle, but rather catalyst of revolt and hope, the soundtrack for those living under oppression, corruption, and the daily failures of power.

 

“Nearly three decades after his passing, it remains a profound mystery how Abami Eda’s philosophy continues to resonate so powerfully across all facets of our shared human experience,” she said.

 

 

Omoboye Odu,  Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations of Ecobank, said: “Hosting Afrobeat Rebellion at EPAC is a statement of pride in Africa’s creative power and resilience.

 

“Fela’s legacy is Nigerian; it is African, and it belongs to the world. We are honoured to provide the stage for this historic homecoming.”

 

Fela’s son, Femi Kuti, appreciated the organisers for honouring his father.

 

“We are glad that Fela is still recognised, appreciated, and honoured. As the years went by, people still understood what he stood for,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

UNILAG Alumni commends FG for bold strides in education 
Culture & Tourism

UNILAG Alumni commends FG for bold strides in education 

 

 

By Henry Oladele

 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association on Monday commended the Federal Government for some bold steps it had taken in the Education Sector.

 

The President of the association, Mr Ifeoluwa Oyedele, gave this commendation at a news conference for the association’s 55th Anniversary and Award night coming up later this year.

 

Oyedele, particularly, lauded the establishment of the NELFUND.

 

He said, “This has made it possible for students in Nigeria to continue with their education without any break.

 

“Recently, the federal government also approved full scholarship for students in technical education at all levels. This is really commendable.”

 

The association’s president also commended the government for its commitment to resolve the impasse between itself and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

 

He added that the government should find a lasting solution to its issues with ASUU, to avert a nationwide strike.

 

“The salaries of our lecturers is nothing to write about, and that’s why we suffer from an excessive brain drain.

 

“A university professor cannot even afford to send his own children to the same university where he lectures. That has to change.

 

“I am happy that the federal government at the highest level, has waded into this issue and I am optimistic that the government will not allow us to go on strike.

 

“However, we must devise a new strategy, a new model for funding education.

 

“Our educational sector is under strain. From the primary to tertiary level, institutions face overwhelming challenges,” he said.

 

Among those challenges, he mentioned inadequate funding that left schools struggling to deliver quality education, adding that there were lagging brain drain among the best trade minds.

 

“Also, the persistent challenge of welfare for our teachers, lecturers and researchers is a very good task to shape the minds of the next generation.

 

“That is why, as an association, we have chosen to be part of the solution.

 

Oyedele said that over the years, it had stepped forward to boost the quality of students’ mentorship and support, adding that it had also opened doors of opportunity to countless students.

 

“We have contributed to rebuilding some of our lecture halls and hostels, and undertaken advocacy to ensure that issues of education remain at the forefront of our national conversation.

 

“We cannot wait to do more,” Oyedele said.

 

He stressed that government at all levels had the task to make education the true quality it deserved to be.

 

He called on every Nigerian citizen, and especially every alumnus, to give back to their Alma mater, whether through mentorship, financial support or advocacy.

 

“Every contribution matters and in spite of the challenges, I stand before you today full of optimism. Nigeria is a place of talent, resilience, and creativity.

 

“With the right support, our universities will not only compete with their global counterparts but also drive national development in science, technology, the arts and government.

 

“The truth of the matter is that education needs money. And without money, you cannot perform education,” Oyedele said.

 

On the alumni’s 55th anniversary celebration, Oyedele said that the recognition and award night was not just another event on the calendar, but a flagship gathering of all alumni worldwide.

 

He noted that it was an event where all the alumni would come together to celebrate excellence, honour outstanding contributions, and very importantly, raise much needed funds to support the association.

 

“This year’s edition is particularly significant because it marks our 55th anniversary.

 

“It will take place on Oct. 17, and will be held at Eko Hotel and Suites, with the Special Guest of Honour being His Excellency, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Ibrahim Shettima,” he said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the awardees for the coming alumni anniversary celebration include Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria; Wole Olanipekun, Pro-Chancellor, UNILAG, among others. (NAN)

 

 

Edited by Christiana Fadare

21st Akwaaba Travel Expo opens in Lagos
Culture & Tourism

21st Akwaaba Travel Expo opens in Lagos

By Joan Odafe

The 21st edition of Akwaaba African Travel Market opened in Lagos on Sunday, drawing tourism boards, travel practitioners and industry stakeholders from across Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day expo is organised by Akwaaba Travel Market Ltd. in partnership with Wakanow, Air Peace, Interswitch, Lagos State and Gambia.

The three-day expo, which will hold from Sept. 14 to Sept. 18, will be a gathering of airlines, travel agents, tour operators, hospitality brands, content creators and tourism boards from various African countries.

NAN also reports that the expo, which opened with exhibitions, also featured a culinary competition – the ‘Jollof Rice War’, and an awards ceremony.

The jollof rice war was among 10 chefs, who explored various flavours of jollof rice, including asun, native, ofada, seafood and coconut infused.

Earlier, the Convener, Ikechi Uko, said the programme had been carefully curated to deliver maximum value for over 3,000 participants expected at the event.

“Akwaaba, recognised as West Africa’s only international travel and exhibition and one of the largest in Africa, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting intra-African travel, trade and cultural exchange.

“This year’s edition promises to be historic as it will host the highest collection of airlines at any travel expo in Africa, reinforcing its position as a hub for aviation connectivity and partnerships in the continent,” he said.

Dr Abisoye Fagade, the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), who used the platform to congratulate Nigerian Chef Hilda Baci on her recent feat, cooking the largest pot of jollof rice, described the delicacy as Nigeria’s gift to the world.

The director-general announced that the institute plans to host an event for the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest dining table in December.

The Founder of Taste of African Vibes, Jibola Abati, highlighted the role of travel content creators in promoting destinations.

Abati, who is also the Convener of the African Travel Content Creator Conference, urged governments to collaborate with the creatives to give the continent the deserved visibility.

“They have been using their resources to promote Nigeria.

“Material support and partnerships will encourage them to do more,” he said.

NAN further reports that the Gov. Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti received ‘The Tourism Governor of the Year’ award, while the state was awarded the ‘Most Active Tourism State’. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Nigerian-German Investment and Cultural Expo will promote Tinubu’s Agenda – Tuggar
Culture & Tourism

Nigerian-German Investment and Cultural Expo will promote Tinubu’s Agenda – Tuggar

By Priscilla Osaje

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, says the forthcoming Nigerian-German Investment and Cultural Expo (NGICE 2025) in Berlin will support and promote the President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The minister said this when a high level delegation of NGICE 2025 led by former IGP, Mike Okiro, who is the chairman of the Organising Committee of the Expo, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the expo is scheduled to take place in Berlin in October.

Tuggar said the upcoming 2025 NGICE represents more than a cultural showcase, adding it reflects the depth of Nigeria’s bilateral relations with Germany and supports the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, this complements the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President by opening doors for investment, trade, and cultural diplomacy.

The minister, who pledged the ministry’s support for the expo, said the initiative is a timely support mechanism for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment and promote Nigeria’s cultural identity on the international stage.

“Germany and Nigeria have a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect and productive cooperation,” the minister said, recalling his time as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany.

“Anything involving Germany is close to me personally, and I welcome this initiative as part of the cultural and economic renaissance we’re witnessing under President Tinubu.”

Tuggar clarified that sectoral responsibilities would remain with the relevant ministries, particularly Culture and Tourism as well as Trade and Investment.

According to him, the Foreign Affairs Ministry is fully prepared to offer diplomatic support, especially in the area of visa facilitation for those travelling to participate in the Expo.

“We are ready to play our part. In terms of visas and diplomatic clearance, there should be no difficulty from our side,” he stated, encouraging the organisers to maintain close coordination with the German Embassy in Nigeria.

Tuggar also noted Germany’s consistent openness in cultural matters, pointing to events such as the 2019 Nigeria Cultural Day in Berlin and recent cooperation on the return of looted artefacts, including the Benin bronzes.

“Germany has always shown a willingness to engage sincerely on cultural issues. This makes Berlin a fitting location for an event of this nature,” he added.

Earlier, the former IGP said, “the expo is to showcase Nigeria’s investment potentials in oil and gas and solid mineral and encourage them to come and invest.

According to him, it will also further expose our music and movie to the world. That is what we aim to achieve with the expose.

Also speaking at the event, Amb. Chielo Ojirika, the Director-General of the Salute Nigeria Initiative and Coordinator of the expo, said the expo is being designed as a strategic platform to attract foreign direct investment and promote the country’s diverse cultural and business opportunities.

Ojirika, also known as Chiboy D’Black Courage, Nigerian Cultural Ambassador to Germany, is the first Nigerian and African artist to top the Top Ten Internet Music Chart in Germany in 2001.

“NGICE 2025 aims to bring the world to Berlin for Nigeria. We are presenting Nigeria as an investor’s paradise, a country full of untapped opportunities in trade, agriculture, fashion, technology, and culture,” Ojirika said.

He explained that the expo will feature exhibitions, investment showcases, business forums, and roundtable sessions involving investors, financial institutions, CEOs, and public-private sector leaders.

According to him, other activities will include cultural displays, global peace concert, gala night/awards, networking sessions, and guided visits to relevant companies and institutions in Germany.

“We are not just promoting investment. We are also showcasing Nigeria’s soft power—our culture, our people, and our potential,” he added.

Ojirika expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its support and reaffirmed the commitment of organisers to deliver an event that meets international standards and strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic goals. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Soyinka, Cardoso drum support for Nigeria-Brazil cultural renaissance ‎
Culture & Tourism

Soyinka, Cardoso drum support for Nigeria-Brazil cultural renaissance ‎

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎‎Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Yemi Cardoso have called for a deeper Nigeria-Brazil cultural renaissance for the cultural and economic benefit of both nations.
‎
‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the duo made the call during a landmark cultural and heritage event held in the Legislative Chambers of Brasília, on the sidelines of President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil.
‎
‎Soyinka lauded Presidents Tinubu and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for their strong commitment to strengthening ties between Africa and its diaspora through cultural exchange.
‎
‎The literary icon urged greater involvement from all stakeholders to ensure the process is seamless, enriching, and a driver of economic growth.
‎
‎NAN reports that the event served as a platform for Soyinka to spotlight his ‘Return to Africa project’, an initiative symbolising spiritual and cultural reconnection with Africa.
‎
‎The project traces the transatlantic slave trade route, ending at the symbolic “Point of No Return” in Badagry, Nigeria.
‎
‎“It is a symbolic Return,” Soyinka said. “Not about physically going back, but spiritually reconnecting with our African heritage, highlighting the resilience and strength of the African people.”
‎
‎CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso told NAN that the visit was a strategic moment for cultural diplomacy and economic cooperation, especially through private sector involvement.
‎
‎Cardoso, an Afro-Brazilian descendant, highlighted the importance of direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil in strengthening cultural ties.
‎
‎“As an Afro-Brazilian descendant, I take great pride in this moment of connection and mixing of peoples.”
‎
‎“This state visit and the signature of MOUs have reinforced the importance of collaboration between Brazil and Nigeria,” Cardoso said.
‎
‎“President Lula mentioned how trade has dropped between us and stressed the urgency to reverse that,” he added.
‎
‎The CBN governor highlighted the similarities between both countries and his childhood experience travelling to Brazil.
‎
‎
‎He also encouraged Brazilians visiting Nigeria to leverage ongoing banking reforms that simplify cross-border transactions and investments.
‎
‎”I can tell you that Nigerian banks are now building products around the diaspora. Unlike before, it’s now easier to open an account.”
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‎”You can do it from your home, it’s now digitalized. They are building products around the IBVN, so you can open an account, you can invest, you can buy things, unlike before. This is great for both countries,” Cardoso said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
‎
Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art
Culture & Tourism

Legacy: Ecobank celebrates icons of Nigerian art

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

Ecobank Nigeria says it is deepening its commitment to cultural development with the hosting of an art exhibition that celebrates the creativity and legacies of Nigeria’s most revered artists.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exhibition, titled “Enduring Legacy: A Collector’s Tribute to Masters”, which began on Saturday will run for three weeks at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.

 

 

 

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs Omoboye Odu, Head of SMEs, Ecobank Nigeria, said the project reflects the bank’s dedication to supporting African creativity and heritage while empowering the creative economy.

 

 

 

“This exhibition is more than an event; it is a love project. It demonstrates Ecobank’s role not just as a financial institution but as a patron of African art and cultural excellence,” Odu said.

 

 

 

She noted that the exhibition, organised in partnership with Artcada Gallery, Krabhouse Gallery, and EPAC Studios, would feature works by masters such as Bruce Onobrakpeya, Kolade Oshinowo, Jimoh Buraimoh, Muraina Oyelami, and Moses Umukoro.

 

 

 

According to her, the bank’s cultural initiatives align with its corporate social responsibility focus on economic empowerment and cultural preservation.

 

 

 

“We have consistently promoted Nigerian creativity through past events such as Achebe in Lagos, the +234 Art Fair, and Oja Oge, which spotlighted young artists, fashion designers, and SMEs.

 

 

 

“This exhibition continues that journey of projecting Nigeria’s talents to the world,” she added.

 

 

 

Odu explained that more than 700 works of art would be displayed, offering art lovers, collectors, scholars, and cultural custodians an opportunity to experience Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage.

 

 

 

The curator of the exhibition, Adekepemi Aderemi of Artcada Gallery, described the showcase as a tribute to Nigeria’s revered masters whose works had preserved the nation’s heritage across generations.

 

 

 

She said the exhibition features rare pieces from a private archive of nearly 30,000 works, some dating back to 1864, highlighting the evolution of Nigerian modern and contemporary art.

 

 

 

Aderemi commended the bank for supporting cultural preservation, stressing that the initiative reinforces art’s value as both an economic driver and a custodian of identity.

 

 

 

The Chief Executive Officer of Krabhouse Gallery, Andrew Ine, said Nigerian art remains significantly undervalued despite its global potential.

 

 

 

He noted that the sector could conservatively be worth 30 per cent of the 62 billion dollar African art market if given proper visibility.

 

 

 

He stressed that exhibitions and cultural events were crucial to unlocking that value.

 

 

 

“In other countries, people take time off just to enjoy exhibitions because it brings spiritual fulfillment.

 

 

 

“That is where we are headed in Nigeria, a cultural awakening about the value of art,” Ine said.

 

 

 

According to him, the proliferation of new galleries in Lagos reflects a growing appreciation of art as both a cultural and economic asset.

 

 

 

He added that passion for art must be balanced with economic realities, noting that building the Nigerian art economy requires resilience, vision, and partnerships that sustain artists and their families. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Kaduna film festival seeks return of arts, culture ministry
Culture & Tourism

Kaduna film festival seeks return of arts, culture ministry

By Moses Kolo

Organisers of the 8th Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) have urged the Kaduna State Government to reintroduce the Ministry for Arts and Culture which served as a tool of social transformation.

Recall that in 2019, former Gov. Nasir El-Rufa’i had issued an Executive Order that restructured the State’s Ministries including abolishing the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, under which Culture previously fell.

The ministry was replaced by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Development, effectively reducing the status of culture to a Department within a broader portfolio.

Mr Israel Audu, who emphasised the role of arts and culture as a catalyst for transformation, described cinema as “a mirror to our society” which reflects struggles, victories, and aspirations.

He said: “Like Tourism is a Department under the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology, which is also a new Ministry, we equally plead with the state government to have the Ministry of Arts and Culture like we used to.

“This, we believe, will create that the grassroots connection with the creatives as there are so many of them who do not even know how to access the government.

“We are hopeful that soon, we will have the Ministry for Arts and Culture back again in Kaduna State.”

Audu said film also inspired audiences to act on critical social issues such as inequality, gender equity, environmental sustainability, and human rights.

He said: “With this year’s theme, Film for Social Change, the festival seeks to highlight cinema’s unique ability to not only entertain but to provoke thought, raise awareness, and amplify underrepresented voices.

“Digital platforms have expanded the reach of socially impactful films as such, filmmakers should handle themes with care and truth and I encourage the audiences to embrace media literacy.

“Festivals like KADIFF are more than cultural showcases as they are engines of social transformation and economic growth through tourism, job creation, and intercultural exchange.

“The 2025 edition, holding from August 26th to 30th, features a rich lineup of masterclasses, screenings from over 15 countries and panel discussions.

“There are alsoncultural exhibitions, workshops, awards, and for the first time, a skill acquisition program in partnership with the ELS Empowerment Foundation.”

The executive director expressed appreciation to the sponsors, partners, and the state government under the leadership of Gov. Uba Sani for their unwavering support in making the festival a success.

Mrs Gloria Ibrahim, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Youths Development, who represented the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, applauded the resilience of the organisers for sustaining a festival which she said was one of the strong voices of creativity in the state and nation.

Balarabe described the theme: ‘Film for Social Change’, as both timely and profound, adding, “film is not only a medium of entertainment but also a force that speaks to the conscience of society, shapes values, educates, and inspires action.”

Highlighting the economic weight of the Nigerian film industry, she said that Nollywood, alongside music, contributed over N1.3 trillion to the nation’s GDP and provided employment for more than 4.2 million Nigerians.

She said: “Beyond the numbers are lives being touched, jobs being created, and communities being lifted.”

The deputy governor reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting the creative sector, recognising it as a vital driver of youthsbempowerment, job creation, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

She affirmed that platforms like KADIFF provided young people with opportunities to showcase their skills and connect with broader markets.

Balarabe commended the vision and perseverance of the festival’s organisers, urging more public and private stakeholders to invest in the creative industry.

“By investing here, you are not only promoting art and culture but also strengthening an industry with the potential to generate millions more jobs for Nigerians.

“With these strong endorsements, the 8th Kaduna International Film Festival set the stage for an engaging week of films, masterclasses, cultural showcases, and industry networking aimed at using cinema as a tool for social transformation,” she added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlights of the event included; cultural songs, dance, dramatic and comedy displays by respective invited groups.

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Soyinka meets Brazilian President, champions cultural diplomacy
Culture & Tourism

Soyinka meets Brazilian President, champions cultural diplomacy

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka on Monday met with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brasília, calling for stronger cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu, currently on a state visit to Brazil, had earlier held bilateral talks with President da Silva.

Though Soyinka’s visit was private, it aligned with ongoing efforts by both governments and private sectors to deepen relations between Africa’s largest Black nation and South America’s biggest economy.

During the meeting, Soyinka presented his translated book Mito, Literatura e o Mundo Africano (Myth, Literature and the African World) to President da Silva.

The literary icon also emphasised cultural diplomacy as a vital tool for fostering mutual understanding and building global partnerships.

Soyinka later took part in cultural renaissance events hosted by Brazilian communities; further promoting Afro-Brazilian cultural exchange. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Korean Centre showcases films to boost ties with Nigeria
Culture & Tourism

Korean Centre showcases films to boost ties with Nigeria

By Priscilla Osaje

The Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN) says it remains committed to strengthening cultural relations with Nigeria through provision of music and movies to Nigerians.

Ms Yunjin Lee, the Cultural Event Manager of the Centre, said this at the 13th Korean Film Festival in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a three-day film festival, which began on Thursday, featured Korean movies such as ‘Untouchable Lawmen’, ‘Sunset in My Hometown’ and ‘We are Brothers’.

Lee said, “The essence of this festival is to deepen the cultural ties between Nigeria and Korea through quality and enjoyable entertainment to Nigerians in Abuja.

“We are not bringing only entertainment to Nigerians, but to show how Korea looks like, especially for the movie ‘Sunset in My Hometown’ showcase the country side of Korea. You can see the scenery and how people live there,” she said.

According to her, the kind of movies  they show in this festival cannot be seen in any movie platforms. These are special movies that provide entertainment.

“Through watching these movies, Nigerians would get to know more about Korea, its people, happening and the movie industry.

“We will continue to strengthen the cultural relationship between Nigeria and Korea through such Festival and other activities organised by the KCCN,” Lee added.

According to her, this film festival will end on Saturday, and we choose five different movies to screen for three days. Today, movies are about comedy plus romantic comedy.

Meanwhile, some Nigerians, who watched the movies, expressed satisfaction with the lessons in the movies.

A movie enthusiast, Ms Ada Idoko told NAN that the film festival was refreshing and entertaining.

According to her, the movie ‘Untouchable Lawmen’ has demonstrated that there are bad people in corridors of power, and hence the need to sanitise the system to better a society.

“I really enjoyed the movies: ‘Untouchable Lawmen’, ‘Sun Set in My Hometown’ and ‘We are Brothers’ are really interesting.

“I feel so happy to come and watch these Korean movies. It has also open my eyes to the high quality of production in the Korean movie industry.

“We need more of such festival, because it is real refreshing,” Idoko stressed.

Another movie enthusiast, Stephen Ayuba, who said he came with his class mates to attend the festival, appreciated KCCN for putting up the film festival

“We had fun. There was no dull moment through out the movies.  Kudos to KCCN, and more of such entertainment, ” he stressed.

NAN reports that movie enthusiasts went home with different gifts via a raffle draw. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Renewed Hope Initiative: First Lady meets Lagos traditional, religious leaders
Culture & Tourism

Renewed Hope Initiative: First Lady meets Lagos traditional, religious leaders

By Aderonke Ojediran

Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has engaged traditional rulers and religious leaders in Lagos State on her Renewed Hope Initiative, emphasising the need for its support at the grassroots.

Tinubu, who is on a three-day working visit to Lagos, stressed the importance of consulting custodians of culture and faith before implementing such a programme.

“We recognise the significance of partnering with traditional institutions and religious leaders in driving initiatives that benefit the grassroots.

“It is important that we keep collaborating; our grassroots is crucial towards ensuring that the Renewed Hope Initiative succeeds,” she said.

She highlighted her advocacy for alternative high schools for girls, saying that Lagos should expand a model introduced by her husband 17 years ago, when he was governing the state.

“Lagos State has a responsibility to ensure that girl-child education is prioritised.

“We are committed to partnering with the Universal Basic Education Commission and state governments to sustain second-chance schools,” she said.

Earlier, the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, applauded the first lady for the visit and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that girl-child education would be prioritised.

Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a transformative effort that transcended politics and reinforced national hope.

“Sen. Remi Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative is a beacon of hope for our nation.

“We are delighted to partner with her in driving developments that benefit our people,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Mr Mudashiru Obasa, the Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, expressed optimism that the interactive session would further boost the state’s development agenda.

“We are confident that this meeting will yield positive outcomes and further strengthen the partnership between the government and the traditional institution,” Obasa said.

The Traditional Ruler of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, who spoke on behalf of the traditional institution, urged recognition and enlisting of the 37 local council development areas of Lagos State in Nigeria’s Constitution.

“We are grateful to Sen. Tinubu for listening to our demands, and we are optimistic that our requests will be relayed to the National Assembly,” Shotobi said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the rest of the meeting was held behind closed doors.

The Renewed Hope Initiative is a non-profit, non-governmental initiative led by the first lady.

It has the slogan: “Towards a Better Life for Families” and operates across all 36 states and 774 local government areas of Nigeria to improve the lives of families through targeted programmes in health, education, agriculture and social welfare. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

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